Hello!
I attained my PMP Certification April 2021. I am a novice PMP, working for a small consulting company where in depth planning is often not within scope or budget. I do have fears that I will start to loose all of the things I have learned through preparing for the PMP exam if I don't continue to train and practice.
What would be a good next certification to pursue to keep Project Management top of mind and continue to grow my PM toolkit? Saving Changes...
Maureen WhiteMaster Scheduler| Textron SystemsLondonderry, Nh, United States
Hi Jessica,
I suggest attending PMI chapter meetings and join LinkedIn PM groups. MPUG (Microsoft Project User Group) has weekly webinars and on demand webinars with PDUs, there is a fee to join. Saving Changes...
Unfortunately a credential is not going to be of much value if your current role doesn't allow you to substantially use the knowledge you gained while studying for the PMP exam. I'd suggest a better option might be to volunteer with a PMI chapter or other association and use the skills there or consider acting as a mentor for candidates looking to take the PMP exam.
The effort to obtaining the PDU's for PMP certification maintenance is an incentive to keep learning and practicing PMP abilities. Don't focus on a new certification without applying and developing your PMP knowledge in the current work. Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Jessica
This is a very important question. First, I assure you that none of us do work in-depth with everything we learn. You always customize the processes to suit what you do so I don't personally think you will lose touch with what you've learned.
On the other hand, these days with this rapidly evolving world, you need to stay ahead of the curve (i.e. continuious professional development) so if you are looking for a good next certification, I sugest the PMI-ACP if you have some agile experience. I did benefit a lot from this certification.
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Jun 02, 2021 10:34 AM
Replying to Jessica Huff
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Thanks everyone! Some great thoughts and suggestions here. Much appreciated :)
You're welcome and good luck ! Saving Changes...
James DunnProject Manager| Acres EnterprisesKamloops, British Columbia, Canada
I am in a similar situation as you. I have decided to pursue Lean Six Sigma at my own pace online. As you go through each Belt they will help get the required PDUs that you must get anyways to keep your PMP. LSS in just one avenue I also went for my Scrum Master (PSM) while studying for my PMP. I also like the suggestion on volunteering for your local chapter. Saving Changes...
Arumugam ThiagarajanAgricultural Scientist| Environment and Climate Change CandaNepean, Ontario, Canada
PMP certification is a mindset, knowledge and attitude in what you do. I work with research projects that is quite diversified in this characteristics. No matter how small or big we can incorporate the principles of PMP and keep our minds engaged with the practices. Remember Project Management is a sea to swim and you definitely want to pick your area that is relevant and gain in-depth knowledge that helps your career. More learning good but I would recommend focusing on what helps your career.
With regard to maintaining the PDUs, there are several options besides practicing. There are free webinars in project management that you can watch and learn. You can submit articles and earn PDUS. Good luck with your PMP activities, Jessica. Saving Changes...
Aaron YerianProject Manager| Beacon Hill TechnologyZanesville, Oh, United States
I experienced the same fears last year when I certified.
If you're happy where you are, then I would recommend PMI's podcast, earn PDUs.
I believe there is a "free" beginners course available from the dashboard LMS back on PMI.org Saving Changes...
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